South Manitou Island Light stands on the western shore of South Manitou Island in Lake Michigan, guiding vessels through the Manitou Passage since 1839. Originally a modest brick tower, it was rebuilt in 1871 with the 100-foot tower still standing today. The lighthouse remains an active navigational aid maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard.

The tower is not open to public climbing, but visitors can view the exterior and explore the surrounding grounds. Golden hour offers the best photography, with the lighthouse silhouetted against Lake Michigan sunsets.

South Manitou Island, part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, features a virgin cedar forest, shipwreck ruins, and pristine beaches—all accessible by ferry from Leland, Michigan.

Explore Nearby

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